Circulation Services in a Small Academic Library

(Hardback)

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Description

In a library, circulation is the process of lending books to borrowers and accurately reshelving them after they have been returned so that they will be retrievable by the next user. This basic cycle has many elaborations and sub-cycles attached to it, such as those for overdues and holds, the record-keeping process, and the reserve book operation. These sub-cycles vary from library to library, but the basic cycle remains the same in every library that allows patrons to remove books. Connie Battaile provides a detailed volume written for those new to the circulation department of small academic libraries. The author presents not the definitive way to run a circulation department, but rather she provides a variety of possible methods. Because the circulation department is the main public contact point, many library "housekeeping" chores are assigned to it. Again, these additional responsibilities vary from library to library, but the author provides various procedures. The physical environment of the department and the stacks, the staff, effective communications and scheduling are covered in full detail.

Reviews

. . . . The book is timely, easily read, and indexed. The table of contents is clear and indexed. . . . This book is highly recommended for all libraries. The author has prepared a guide for the novice circulation librarian as well as a reference tool for library management in any setting.-RQ
This is a useful resource for someone seeking practical understanding of the circulation process.-ALR
This is a work that can be read quickly and whose ideas can be readily absorbed and put into practice.-Wilson Library Bulletin
"This is a useful resource for someone seeking practical understanding of the circulation process."-ALR
"This is a work that can be read quickly and whose ideas can be readily absorbed and put into practice."-Wilson Library Bulletin
." . . . The book is timely, easily read, and indexed. The table of contents is clear and indexed. . . . This book is highly recommended for all libraries. The author has prepared a guide for the novice circulation librarian as well as a reference tool for library management in any setting."-RQ

Author Bio

CONNIE BATTAILE is a former head of the circulation department of Colgate University Library.